Knits of a Feather - Celeste Young Book Review

I am so excited to finally hold in my hands Knits of a Feather (Sellers Publishing, Inc.) by Celeste Young! This first (hopefully of many) book by Celeste honors our feathered friends with a collection of well-conceived, classically-inspired designs. Featuring fibers from Cascade Yarns, this book is beautifully written, and promises to introduce you to a myriad of projects that must be immediately cast on or placed in queue.

Stranded knitting, cables, duplicate stitch, lace, embroidery, beading, steeking... there are many techniques flexing their muscles in this collection, but it's all done in a way that's not threatening. Celeste gently guides the reader through each step, and even explains the why behind the notes (which helps us all become better at our craft!)

My favorite project in the collection? The Bird on a Wire Cowl. It's whimsical, graphic, and allows for a bit of practice at stranded knitting. It's the first piece out of this book that I'll cast on. 

The second favorite project is that incredibly beautiful Peacock Tam! WOW what a stunning design. 

...and that cute beaded bracelet is a perfect style choice for knitted jewelry. It's a clever concept, and I believe that it'd be a great introduction to beading for those who are curious about that technique.

...and I also love the Cardinal cap. (OK, OK... I should just say the projects are all really cool!)

Knitting books seem to follow the same basic layout. Learn to knit instructions, background information, patterns, then resources (or sometimes the tutorial information is here at the back of the book). Knits of a Feather does something that I don't remember seeing elsewhere: the hints and instructions relevant to a pattern are located right next to the instructions! 

GIVEAWAY!
I have an autographed copy of Knits of a Feather to give to one of my readers! Post in the comments and tell me which project in Knits of a Feather is your favorite and why. I'll randomly choose a person from the comments on this post. Entries deadline 12:01AM PST on Monday, October 14, 2013.

If you can't wait, or want to buy a few copies for friends, the book is also available through the designers website (where you can get an autographed copy!), your local yarn shop, book stores, and online retailers.

Here's a peek at the projects included in the book. Click on each image to be directed to the corresponding Ravelry page (where you can add it to your favorites or queue!)

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Feathered Cloche

Feathery Beaded Cuff

Peacock Tam

Feathered Shoulder Warmer

Bird on a Wire Cowl

Hummingbird Coffee Cozy

Wingtip Shawl

Murmation Shawl

Lovebird Mittens

Magpie Ring Pillow

Raven Pullover

Snowy Owl Capelet

Sandpiper Scarf

Robin's Egg Wristlets

Bluebird on My Shoulder Cardigan

Partridge Holiday Pillow

Cardinal Cap

UPDATE

CONGRATULATIONS! to Vivian who won the autographed copy of Celeste's book! I have sent out an email and as soon as I get a mailing address, this great book will be on its way!

Thank you, everyone, for taking time to read and comment!

Kyle

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